Next-gen 2021 Kia Carnival shows off upmarket interior

It’s refreshing to see that Kia has given its humble people mover one of the most sophisticated interiors of its line-up.

Featuring a double screen first made famous by Mercedes-Benz, the Kia Carnival’s 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is accompanied by a touchscreen infotainment system of the same size that includes haptic feedback technology.

The beautifully executed wraparound dashboard also hosts the touch-sensitive controls for the climate control, while the air vents are neatly integrated into dashboard.

Elsewhere, a rotary dial that uses shift-by-wire technology has replaced the outgoing model’s gear lever. This means there is actually no mechanical linkage between the dial and the transmission itself, with all the work done by an electronic control unit.

Depending on the market, the Kia Carnival will be available in three- or four-row seating configurations with room for 7, 9 or 11 occupants. When optioned in 7-seat configuration, the new model boasts reclining captain’s chair with adjustable armrests, backrests, and legrests for second-row occupants. They also have access to USB chargers, storage nets for mobile devices and a new storage drawer in the base of the rear console.

Billed as a ‘Grand Utility Vehicle’ by Kia, the Carnival’s wheelbase has grown by 30mm while the body itself is also 10mm wider, which means more cabin space. Overall length has increased by 40mm, with the rear overhang growing by 30mm to liberate more third-row and cargo space.

More details to come.